Former state employee pleads to theft

A former case worker in the Department of Human Resources’ (DHR) Office of Child Support Services pleaded guilty yesterday to a charge of theft by a government employee in Mitchell County.

According to state officials, Susan Willis stole more than $17,000 while employed by DHR. The funds had been paid by people for child support, officials said.

“Ms. Willis was entrusted with administering child support payments for children who rely on them,” Attorney General Sam Olens said in a news release. “She violated her position of trust as a public servant and stole money from children financially dependent on the payments. While no theft is ever tolerated by an employee of the State of Georgia, the circumstances of this case are exceptionally deplorable.”

Chief Judge Wallace Cato sentenced Willis to 15 years, three to serve. In addition, she has been ordered to pay a $1,000 fine and full restitution.